### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **makrothymía**, represented by `{{G3115}}`, describes **longsuffering** and **patience**. Its base definition is longanimity, which can be understood objectively as forbearance or subjectively as fortitude. It appears 14 times in 14 unique verses, highlighting its specific and important role in describing a key spiritual virtue.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3115}}` is presented as both a divine attribute and a Christian requirement. It is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit, alongside love, joy, and peace [[Galatians 5:22]]. It is also an attribute of God himself, whose **longsuffering**, goodness, and forbearance are meant to lead people to repentance [[Romans 2:4]]. Believers are called to demonstrate this same quality, being instructed to walk with "all lowliness and meekness, with **longsuffering**, forbearing one another in love" [[Ephesians 4:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G3115}}`:
* `{{G5281}}` **hypomonḗ** (patience): Defined as cheerful or hopeful endurance and constancy, this term is often used in close connection with **longsuffering** to describe the believer's steadfastness [[Colossians 1:11]].
* `{{G463}}` **anochḗ** (forbearance): Meaning self-restraint or tolerance, this word appears alongside **longsuffering** to describe the riches of God's character toward mankind [[Romans 2:4]].
* `{{G4236}}` **praiótēs** (meekness): Described as gentleness or humility, this virtue is often commanded to be "put on" by believers in conjunction with **longsuffering** [[Colossians 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G3115}}` is demonstrated in its application to God, Christ, and the believer.
* **A Divine Quality:** God’s character is marked by **longsuffering**. He patiently endured "the vessels of wrath" [[Romans 9:22]] and waited in the days of Noah [[1 Peter 3:20]]. This divine patience is directly linked to salvation [[2 Peter 3:15]].
* **The Fruit of the Spirit:** **Longsuffering** is not merely a human discipline but is identified as a product of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life [[Galatians 5:22]].
* **A Pattern for Believers:** Christ demonstrated "all **longsuffering**" in the apostle Paul as a pattern for all who would believe [[1 Timothy 1:16]]. Christians are therefore commanded to put on **longsuffering** as part of their new identity in Christ [[Colossians 3:12]].
* **A Prerequisite for Inheritance:** This quality, when paired with faith, is presented as the means by which believers become followers of those who "inherit the promises" [[Hebrews 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3115}}` is a vital concept that bridges divine character and human conduct. It is far more than simple endurance; it is a fortitude rooted in the Spirit, modeled by God and Christ, and essential for Christian ministry and relationships. From God's patient call to repentance to the believer's call to forbear with others, **longsuffering** is a cornerstone of biblical faith and practice.
TRV